Japan: Divorce Boom on Deck

This article demonstrates the effects that government-induced financial incentives have on people as they evaluate marriage, or staying married, as the case may be. The result is no surprise, really. Excerpt:

With a new law set to come into force in 2007 allowing ex-wives to claim half their husband's pension, domestic media are warning of a possible divorce boom.

The number of Japanese couples parting ways has risen rapidly over the past 20 years to a 2002 peak of 290,000, while divorce among those married more than 20 years has increased even faster.

Now figures are drifting downwards, but many commentators speculate that women -- who initiate the majority of divorces -- are holding out until 2007.

Wait 'til the law is in effect, then take the old man for half, or better -- simple enough, yes?

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